Government legislation introduced in the Senate aims to update Canada’s framework governing measurement and verification of trade-related devices, such as scales, gas pumps, and electricity and gas meters.

The Weights and Measures Act and the Electricity and Gas Inspection Act have not been substantively updated since the 1980s, and no longer reflect the current market environment and digital technologies.

“Trade measurement touches the lives of every Canadian each and every day. Whether you are fuelling your car, buying fruits and vegetables at the grocery store or paying your electricity bill, Canadians rely on accurate and reliable measurements,” Senator Toni Varone said during his second reading speech on Tuesday.

“Financial transactions based on measurement occur in virtually all major industry sectors in the commercial and retail supply chains. The accuracy of devices used to buy or sell goods based on measurement has a direct impact on the pockets of all Canadians.”

The changes proposed in Bill S-3 would reduce barriers to business success, curtail the burden on regulated parties, increase protections for consumers and allow more efficient service delivery, he said. The legislation also proposes to expand the definition of “meter” to include software and digital components, as meters are no longer strictly mechanical.

“This bill will reduce red tape, enhancing a strong economy where businesses and consumers alike can conduct their transactions with confidence. These amendments will better regulate trade measurement not just for the present but for a rapidly evolving future,” Senator Varone said.

The changes laid out in Bill S-3 reflect the Government’s commitments in Budget 2024 following public consultations in 2023.